Jean Harriette (Richardson) Smith

Jean Harriette Smith, 87, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family.  She was born on October 18, 1932, in her parents’ home near Coggon, the daughter of Russell and Emma (Zumbach) Richardson. Jean was raised in the Coggon area and was a graduate of Coggon High School.

On June 3, 1951, Jean was united in marriage to Freeman Smith at the Golden Congregational Church in Ryan. Four children were born to this union. Jean and Freeman farmed together north of Manchester until their retirement in 1989. They then moved to their current home south of Manchester.

Jean was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Manchester. She was also a member of the Silver Lake Garden Club. Jean loved music, dancing with Freeman, and also enjoyed teaching square and round dancing to others. The couple were longtime members of the Country Cousins Square Dancing Club. Their Do-Si-Do license plates signaled to others their love of dancing. Jean enjoyed cooking and was well known for her peanut clusters and enjoyed sharing them with her family and friends. She loved to do things for her children and grandchildren and cherished spending time with them.

Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Freeman Smith of Manchester; her three daughters, Delma (David) Hardin, Delana (Doug) Schulte, and Sherrie (Glen) Bockenstedt all of Manchester; one son, David (Julie) Smith of Manchester; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren with one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters, Marjorie, Doris, Blanche, and Margaret; and her three brothers, Paul, Ivan, and Louis.

Memorials may be sent to Freeman Smith, 19259 231st Street, Manchester, Iowa.

The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to Regional Medical Center, Cedar Valley Hospice, and most especially to Mariah Kleitsch for their special care.

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